Hosea 13 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter is a poetic oracle of judgment against the northern kingdom of Israel, usually referred to as “Ephraim.”

1. Israel turns from Yahweh to idols (1–3)
2. Yahweh recalls his care and Israel’s rebellion (4–8)
3. Israel’s sin brings judgment and death (9–16)

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Idolatry

The worship of Baal and of cast-metal calf idols is the central offense this chapter condemns.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Yahweh portrayed as a predatory animal

In verses 7-8, Yahweh likens his judgment to a lion, leopard, bear, and lioness; translate these similes so they convey fierceness, not that God is an animal.